Bike Gear Hall of Fame

CamelBak M.U.L.E., 1996

6 / 15

By 1996, suspension forks and disc brakes had turbocharged our mountain bikes, and riders were pushing further afield. But 16-ounce water bottles were holding us back. Just as bad, jersey pockets offered limited space for essentials like a rain jacket, spare tubes, and food. The CamelBak M.U.L.E. was built around a 100-ounce bladder—big enough to hold several hours' worth of fluid--and provided ample space for gear. No longer confined to short loops, mountain bikers rode farther into the woods.

Through six major design changes—gradually incorporating features such as a ventilated back panel, suspension harness, and iPod pocket—the pack has grown along with the sport. Today, the M.U.L.E. is still CamelBak's best-selling model—it accounts for one-third of all cycling hydration packs sold and is a multitime BICYCLING Editors' Choice award winner.